What DC Renters Should Know About Lockout Laws and Emergency Protections

If you rent a home or apartment in the District of Columbia, it’s vital to know your rights if you find yourself locked out—whether accidentally or because of a landlord’s actions. DC law offers specific protections and clear steps for renters, especially if someone tries an unlawful lockout. This guide explains what you can do, key legal terms, and how to get immediate help.

Understanding Legal Lockouts in the District of Columbia

In the District of Columbia, landlords are not permitted to lock out tenants, change the locks, or remove a tenant’s belongings without a court order. This is called a "self-help eviction" and is illegal under DC law. Only a U.S. Marshal, after a proper eviction judgment, can carry out a lawful eviction.

What Qualifies as an Illegal Lockout?

• Changing the locks without an eviction order
• Removing your possessions while you still live in the unit
• Shutting off utilities to force you to leave

An accidental lockout—such as forgetting your keys—does not involve your landlord’s action and is not covered by lockout laws, but you may still need assistance regaining access.

If You’re Locked Out: Steps to Take

Here’s what to do based on the situation:

• Accidental Lockout: Contact your landlord or property manager to request access. Check your lease for any after-hours policies or fees.
• Landlord Lockout: If you believe your landlord has locked you out without a court order, take these actions:

1. Document the situation (take photos or videos of changed locks or notices).
2. Politely request immediate access from your landlord and keep written records.
3. If denied entry, call the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) at (202) 727-9099 for immediate help. Police may intervene to restore your access.
4. Contact the DC Office of the Tenant Advocate for support and guidance.
5. Consider filing a complaint or emergency motion with the DC Superior Court Landlord and Tenant Branch.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

Emergency Motion to Restore Possession

• Form Name: Emergency Motion to Restore Possession
• When to Use: If you are locked out without a court order and cannot regain access, you can file this motion with the DC Superior Court Landlord and Tenant Branch to request emergency restoration of possession.
• How to Use: Complete the form describing the lockout circumstances and request a hearing for immediate entry restoration. Submit the form in person at the court or contact the clerk for assistance.
• Official link: Filing an Emergency Motion – DC Courts

For further details, see the DC Office of the Tenant Advocate summary of tenant rights and the full District of Columbia Housing Code, Title 42, Chapter 3, which defines your legal protections as a renter in DC.

Which Tribunal Handles Lockout Disputes?

The official tribunal that hears lockout and eviction matters in DC is the District of Columbia Superior Court, Landlord and Tenant Branch.

Understanding Your Legal Rights and Protections

DC rental law—specifically Title 42, Chapter 3 of the DC Code—prohibits landlords from physically evicting tenants without a court-supervised process. You have a right to occupy your rental until the court orders otherwise, and only a U.S. Marshal can lawfully remove you after an eviction order.

Your landlord cannot shut off your utilities, change your locks, or remove you without a judgment of eviction and the presence of law enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can my landlord legally lock me out without going to court in DC?
   No. In the District of Columbia, it is illegal for landlords to lock out tenants or change the locks without first obtaining a court order and involving a U.S. Marshal.
2. What should I do if I am illegally locked out by my landlord?
   Document the incident, contact your landlord to request access, and call the Metropolitan Police Department if you’re denied access. You may also file an Emergency Motion to Restore Possession.
3. Who can help me immediately if I’m locked out in DC?
   Contact the Metropolitan Police Department and the DC Office of the Tenant Advocate. In urgent cases, visit the Superior Court’s Landlord and Tenant Branch.
4. Does a landlord have to give me a spare key if I accidentally locked myself out?
   DC law does not require landlords to provide a spare key on demand, but many leases describe key replacement or lockout assistance procedures. Check your lease or contact your landlord for details.
5. What forms do I file if my landlord has refused to let me back in?
   You can file an Emergency Motion to Restore Possession with the DC Superior Court Landlord and Tenant Branch. This form helps you request immediate legal action to regain access.

Key Takeaways for DC Renters Facing a Lockout

• Landlords cannot lock you out, change your locks, or evict you without a court order and law enforcement present.
• If you are locked out, take documented steps and seek immediate assistance from DC police or the Office of the Tenant Advocate.
• Filing the right emergency form with the Superior Court can get your issue heard quickly.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• DC Superior Court – Landlord and Tenant Branch: Handles all lockout and eviction disputes in the District.
• DC Office of the Tenant Advocate: (202) 719-6560 – Counseling, emergency guidance, and legal support.
• Metropolitan Police Department: Immediate response to illegal lockouts – Call (202) 727-9099.
• DC Department of Human Services – Emergency Shelter: Help if you are temporarily without housing.
• Read Title 42, Chapter 3 of the DC Code: Official landlord-tenant laws in DC.

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1. See DC Office of the Tenant Advocate: Summary of DC Landlord-Tenant Law
2. District of Columbia Official Code, Title 42, Chapter 3 (Landlord and Tenant)
3. DC Superior Court – Landlord and Tenant Branch
4. Emergency Motions Process – DC Courts
5. MPDC: Landlord Tenant Disputes

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